Kokoda walk a self-reflection for Prime Minister Marape

The grueling walk and two nights of sleep along the famous Kokoda Trail was a time of reflection for Prime Minister James Marape when accompanying his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese.

A history making journey, both prime ministers flew into Kokoda in Northern Province on Tuesday and started the 12km walk. 

The first leg of the track took them to Deniki Village where they overnighted with the locals, before a day's walk to Isurava Village.

A further walk to the Isurava memorial site, saw both prime ministers sleep for the second night along the historical track before the Anzac Day dawn service, early Thursday morning.

The punishing terrain of Kokoda Trail, continues to be a testament of history and Prime Minister Marape used that to reflect on his service to the country, similar to the Kokoda History.

“As the prime minister of our country, am I doing enough for our country, am I working hard for our country, people out there still need national, provincial and district governments to visit them [the walk is not only to commemorate Kokoda battle] but reflection on where we are today and what we must do going forward.” 

Life has not changed much for this villagers, whose fore-fathers stood brave to support Australian Army personnel, in the 1942 war.   

The bond created over 80 years ago have stood the test of time, and Mr Marape said the bond continues to grow with agreements for short and long term work visa for Papua New Guineans to work in Australia.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the mateship between Mr Marape to walk 12 kilometers together, retracing the footsteps of heroes, shows the unique relationship.

“Walking side by side showing we walked together today and into the future, we have a great relationship as leaders, but our nation has strong relationships forged over 80 years ago,” referring to the Kokoda battle during World War II.